Worldwide Women Artists

Obama presidency stitched in quilt show - Post-Tribune

2012-01-11T20:34:00.000-08:00

Obama presidency stitched in quilt show - Post-Tribune

Fantastically FuNKy Fingerless Gloves/Wrist Warmers

2012-01-09T02:29:00.001-08:00

I still have lots of lovely fingerless glove designs in fun and funky colours , perfect for the chill of January! Check them out HERE!

Tranquil Dawn

2012-01-06T01:35:00.001-08:00

This is one of my new paintings recently completed. 6" x 6" on deep block gallery wrapped canvas.
Available for sale

"House Finch

2011-12-28T12:08:00.000-08:00

"House Finch, Photo by Donna Ridgway, Vaughn, Montana" by Donna Ridgway | RedBubble:

Giclee prints available on this Red Bubble site. Hope you enjoy seeing my little finch. Him and his friends come to my house each day to raid the bird feeder. :)

Donna Ridgway

Fabric Art Necklace

2011-12-03T02:49:00.000-08:00

Triple strands of beautiful knotted and beaded fabric embellished with tiny handmade fabric flowers-an amazing statement piece which works equally as well with a classic smart outfit or a hippy/boho style-depending on your mood!
This design measures (approx) 36" at the longest strand. The layered strands are attached and neatly bound at the back of the neck so the piece stays in place and does not twist or tangle-really is stunning when worn!

Available for sale HERE!

Nasty Toys for Naughty Children

2011-09-01T07:59:00.000-07:00

The Hollyhock Stalk

2011-08-15T21:03:00.000-07:00

"The Hollyhock Stalk"

This year, in my flower garden, the hollyhocks grew to be 9 feet tall. I was amazed! There's a full six foot of flowers and blossoms showing on each stem, plus the huge leaves they bear.

I decided the hollyhock stalk was the hero in this flower drama, for they bear the weight of it all! They don't break in the breeze, and sway back and forth gracefully. I did give them a bit of help by roping them to the yard fence in a few places, but mostly they stand alone.

I just hope they do this again next year, for I've been enjoying them so much!

If you stand level, inside the grouping of hollyhocks, this is the view you see as you look toward the sun. I love to stand inside the tall plants, and look out!

Hope you enjoyed seeing these flowers...

The original painting is for sale in the Artist Peeps R Us gallery on Etsy.

Hope your summer is treating you well!

Donna Ridgway

The Colorful Cow

2011-08-13T06:45:00.000-07:00

I can't help it, I love cows. Even after spending a lifetime of working with cattle, and all their personalities and foibles, I still love them. Nothing is cuter than a cow's face!

So in honor of the cow, I created this painting.

Hope your day is as bright and shiny as she is!

Donna Ridgway

You can find The Colorful Cow shop at Zazzle!

Feisty a 4X4 inch chipmunk painting.

2011-08-12T11:41:00.000-07:00

One day I was walking through the aspen thickets on my cousin's ranch. The Rocky Mountain Front loomed above me, and Fish Lake was by my side. Ahead of me, was a large rock. Suddenly this feisty little chipmunk jumped up on the rock and proceeded to tell me what he thought of me.

He was so small, and so cute with his bossy ways. I had to paint him.

This is a small painting, just 4X4 inches in size, on a gallery wrap canvas, so you don't need to frame this if you don't want to. The painting continues on around the sides.

If you'd like to purchase this painting, it's listed here in the Artist Peeps R Us gallery on etsy. You can also contact me to purchase this painting, or to have this painting placed into a one inch pendant you can wear around you neck. If you love nature and the animals you find there, you might love to have this as a pendant also!

Donna Ridgway (donnaridgway1@hotmail.com)

Paint Party Friday 12

2011-06-03T15:54:00.000-07:00

It's Paint Party Friday and I've been painting all week. Simply Swans is an 8x10 that I've been working on for months. Finally last weekend I changed the coloring of the swans and I like it much better. I still haven't decided if it's done or not. I am thinking of adding a few more highlights and shadows to the swans and possibly the water. What do you think?

This is a rock I did several years ago and it had become all faded, so I gave it a facelift.

I got this beautiful cardinal planter from my sister for my birthday a couple of years ago and it had really faded also. The male cardinal was a yellow red and the flowers blended in. I might do some of the grass, I'm not sure.

This little froggy rock got a face lift too. He was lookin' kinda sad.

As you can probably see I had a blast with my craft acrylics, it's the kind of paint I used when I first started painting.
I hope you can find some time to hop on over to the Host Blog of Paint Party Friday and check out the other entries. You will find some awesome artwork!
Have a wonderful weekend.
hugs,
Brenda

Nasty Toys for Naughty Children

2011-05-31T03:50:00.000-07:00

JAPAN DISASTER SPECIAL : Foamy The Squirrel

2011-03-15T14:09:00.000-07:00

My entry for the Stephen Colbert Portrait Challenge!

2011-03-15T07:31:00.000-07:00

I have entered a piece to the Stephen Colbert Portrait Challenge. Really fun! I have also built a Squidoo lens on it. Image below is my piece and you can get to my lens by clicking on the image or the link above!

Work In Progress...

2011-03-14T03:54:00.000-07:00

A few more snaps of my newest painting in progress today....she will be completed soon now! :)

Lighthouse on the Beach aceo

2011-03-07T12:16:00.000-08:00

I decided to try a new support for this aceo, a dark green mat board. I named it Lighthouse On the Beach and it was created with Prismacolor colored pencil. It is listed in my etsy shop if you are interested, and it's only $15.
I created Lighthouse On the Beach aceo for my DAWG TEAM March Quest, Oceans/Beaches, stop in and 'like' us and if you create artwork, come and join our group. We are a group of women who love doing art and love the Lord.
Be sure to enter our DAWG TEAM aceo giveaway just click on that link and it will take you to our DAWG blog. The giveaway goes until the end of March, so be sure you spread the word.

Also take a look at the ACEO Online Magazine. We'd love it if you'd 'like' us, and if you are an artist please think about joining our group too. Right now there are 57 members and growing. This is our Blog
We also have a group on the Ellen Degeneres ning site I'm the moderator on this site, and would love it if you joined us there too.

***

This past weekend I was looking around YouTube on colored pencil tutorials, I am always wanting to learn as much as I possibly can. I came across this young artist named Jacqueline Pettie, and she's a wonderful colored pencil artist. She even has her own YouTube Cannel. I am very impressed by her talent and dedication to her artwork. This little lady is going places, that's for sure.

Well, that's it for now.
Have a great day,
Brenda

New Painting: Byzantine Blues

2011-03-03T05:11:00.000-08:00

Byzantine Blues - Lynda Lehmann c 2011

"Byzantine Blues" is one of my recent series of small paintings, just 11 x 14 inches. It's one of those paintings whose name seemed to arise out of the ether as I finished it. While my title does not really fit the definition of Byzantine, I still like it for this work. Since it's my painting, I guess I can call it whatever I wish! One of the added joys of making art is the freedom to associate ones image with words and name it thus. That is, to see an image in your own unique way.
The viewer too, is called upon to see whatever he or she wishes, and that is the freedom that is inherent in the ambiguity and mystery of abstract art. Although the bottom line is that titles are not at all necessary to the visual experience, especially of abstraction, and may even detract from the viewer's freedom to see it in his or her own way.
Dictionary.com defines "Byzantine" as follows:
4. Fine Arts . pertaining to or designating the style of the fine or decorative arts developed and elaborated in the Byzantine Empire and its provinces: characterized chiefly by an ecclesiastically prescribed iconography, highly formal structure, severe confinement of pictorial space to a shallow depth, and the use of rich, often sumptuous color.

You can see that this painting does not resemble the "ecclesiastically prescribed iconography," of Byzantine Art at all, although the confinement of pictorial space to a shallow depth and the use of rich color, may apply.

You can read more about the Byzantine Empire at Wiki.
Although I appreciate the beautifully rendered realism of masters such as Da Vinci or John Singer Sargent, my preferred style of painting is abstract. What is your favorite style, when it comes to making or appreciating art?
All images and text on this blog are copyrighted material, and may be used only with written permission, except where syndication rights have been granted. All other rights reserved. Please visit my primary site at http://www.lyndalehmann.com/gallery if you would like to see my acrylic paintings and more of my photography and digital art.

Rose Bird by Diane Clancy

2011-01-18T10:31:00.001-08:00

Rose Birds, Digital © Diane Clancy

Please visit my Etsy Shop to purchase Rose Bird or other vibrant colorful paintings. Many are available in different sizes. I want to inspire and uplift you! Thank you ~ Diane Clancy

Blog: dianeclancy.com/blog
Facebook Artist Page: DianeClancyArt
Twitter: dianeclancy
Website: dianeclancy.com

Little Book of Tags ...

2010-12-28T02:43:00.000-08:00

I am delighted to be offering for sale this lovely fabric art concertina style book, made from heaps of yummy fabrics .
It is filled with a selection of five (5) darling little tags, all handmade textile art ,stamped with words such as care,love,always...plus faces and pretty embroidered designs. The whole thing folds up concertina style and slips into a case made from vintage fabric.Every surface is embellished lavishly,inside and out!
Nothing to stop you, of course, using the folding booklet to keep your own special keepsakes in and taking out the tags to embellish your journals,art, or even special gifts.
Each tag is layered intricately and many of my own hand dyed fabrics are used too. Each is finished with stunning colourful yarns,ribbons and fibers. Tags measure an average of about 2" long.
This book,closed, measures ( approximately ) 4" x 3",( not including all the trails of lace and fiber embellishments) and ( approx) 2" or so thick.
A really delightful collection of truly unique art tags!
Currently available for sale CLICK HERE!!

Serendipity is Nature's Generosity

2010-12-11T19:08:00.000-08:00

Lamb's Ears - Image c Lynda Lehmann

I've been wanting to get back to painting, because painting is my first love. I had promised myself that my next post would be about pigment instead of pixels. But nature intervened and threw me a curve.
I had all but given up on finding anything pixel-worthy on my walk today, when I stumbled upon these dried "Lamb's Ears" plants (as a friend of mine calls them). They are just slightly wilted from the cold, which has been intense for a December on Long Island. But their light gray-green color was outstanding against the auburn of dried, fallen leaves.
It's sometimes hard to find subjects to shoot on suburban streets, unless one comes across a wooded area or something at the very edge of the street. In order to respect people's privacy, or should I say their feelings about privacy, I never point my camera towards a house. That's why I so enjoy getting out of the neighborhood to the larger outdoor spaces with my camera. Not only is there usually more to shoot, but I feel free to point my camera in any direction.
Nature came through again today, with a subject that I feel holds a good deal of beauty and mystery. I've seen this cluster of plants in the same location before, but today the light was right and the colors just popped! Whenever I take in a scene or object of beauty, I feel rich. So today held a tiny bit of serendipity for me.
I hope you found beauty and a touch of serendipity in your day, as well!
Reposted from Peripheral Vision blog. All images and text are copyrighted material, and may be used only with written permission (email is okay) by the author/artist, except where syndication rights have been granted. All other rights reserved. Please visit my primary art site at http://www.lehmann.myexpose.com/gallery if you would like to see my paintings and more of my photography and digital art!

A Great Big Thank You to Marlena's Designer Scarves

2010-12-01T14:57:00.000-08:00

A few posts back, I showed you two of my designs that are available at Designer Scarves by Marlena. Since that time, I've ordered and received one to keep for myself, and I want to share my excitement with you.

I not only want to show you my new product, but I want to take the opportunity to thank Marlena and Robbie again, for not only inviting me aboard, but for producing a gorgeous product.
You can see by my photos how lush and soft the silk is, how vivid and pure the color, and how beautifully it drapes and folds! I'm totally thrilled with it and can't wait to order more in the future.
When Marlena first contacted me, I was busy with a lot of projects and obligations, and I felt the pressure of getting some images together for her. But I'm so glad I did it! I love her array of "fine silk art-scarves in limited editions." Not just because my designs are among them but because they make a beautiful accessory for adding color and warmth to a dreary, gray day. And they make gorgeous keepsake and holiday gifts, as well!
What you see in this post are a few of my own photos of one of my scarf designs. I wanted to show you how it looks flat, and the sheen and gracefulness that it retains when it's folded.
I wish Marlena and Robby all the luck with their shawl and scarf products! You can check out their catalog here: My Gallery at Designer Scarves by Marlena

Re-posted from Peripheral Vision blog. All images and text are copyrighted material, and may be used only with written permission (email is okay) by the author/artist, except where syndication rights have been granted. All other rights reserved. Please visit my primary art site at http://www.lehmann.myexpose.com/gallery if you would like to see my paintings and more of my photography and digital art!

"Magic Lamp" Silk Scarf Designs

2010-11-10T18:59:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to report that my "Magic Lamp" images will be among the designs made from my digital paintings, that will become available in the coming weeks for purchase at Designer Scarves by Marlena!

Many thanks to Marlena and Bob Burger for inviting me to add my designs to their catalog of fine wearable silk art! I love color, so I can't wait to purchase one for myself and wear it. I'll post the link when my designs go online, so you can see them and give me your opinion.

These damp, gloomy autumn days can sure use some color, especially after the foliage has turned brown and no longer creates its seasonal magic!

All images and text are copyrighted material originating from "Peripheral Vision" blog and may be used only with written permission by the author/artist, except where syndication rights have been granted. All other rights reserved. Please visit my primary art site www.lehmann.myexpose.com/ if you would like to see my paintings and more of my photography and digital art.

Art Doll 'GIGGLE'

2010-08-05T12:39:00.001-07:00

GIGGLE is one of my new art dolls recently completed using hand painted fabrics,inks,paints and stitch.
Face is hand painted with permanent pigments and her body and wigs are lusciously padded.
Hangs approx 38cm (15") - metal hanging hoop is already attached to the back for easy display!

I love these, they are such a delight to create-I'm already brimming with further ideas for future characters!
'Giggle' and some of her friends are available for sale and will be at exhibition during Henri Lloyd Falmouth Week, for exposedART on Events Square, Falmouth on Wednesday 11th August. More details to follow soon!

Protecting Robin

2010-07-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I spent some time in my studio, and this is what came out of it. I call it Protecting Robin. It is a 5x7 inch acrylic painting on canvas panel. If you are interested it can be found in my Etsy Shop. Hope you like it.

Blessings,
Brenda Thour

The Metaphysics of Cloth

2010-07-20T10:03:00.001-07:00

The Metaphysics of Cloth - c Lynda Lehmann

This 9" x 12" watercolor reflects my fascination with finding beauty in the transient and accidental, such as the folds of a towel or laundry dropped on the floor, and resonates with my general love of texture and topography. I see texture as the most universal and ever-present level of form. This is one of my older paintings.

I have long been wanting to re-visit the idea of a series like this: many different, flowing and graceful configurations of cloth. I'm finding it really difficult to work towards all my goals, but I know that I'm fortunate to have a number of compelling creative interests (even if they drive me crazy!)

I haven't posted in more that two weeks, because we've been very busy with home-building and renovating projects, as we are each summer. And our daughter is getting married next week, so that is a real sea-change life event. I'm fighting the inclination to feel "very old!" I'm joyous for her, but also feeling a bit melancholy. Where have the years gone?

I hope you are all well, not feeling too uncomfortable with this summer heat, and finding time to pursue your passions. I hope to return to blogging more regularly in August. See you soon!

All images and text are copyrighted material, and may be used only with written permission by the author/artist, except where syndication rights have been granted. All other rights reserved. Please visit my primary art site www.lyndalehmann.com if you would like to see my paintings and more of my photography and digital art.

Up Above My Head No.1

2010-06-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

Up Above My Head No. 1

is painted on 5"x7" Montval 140# watercolor paper

using professional paint.

Click here to purchase

Summer Nights

2010-06-09T08:11:00.000-07:00

Big MOON Light

With the moon this big, no street lights are necessary! "Big MOON Light" reminds me of summer nights when I was a kid. Running around playing hide and seek with friends by moonlight.
This little watercolor was created with Daniel Smith and M Graham watercolors and pen on 140# Fabriano CP watercolor paper.
This original watercolor painting measures 2.5 in. x 3.5 in.

INCONSISTENT

2010-06-08T12:16:00.001-07:00

Currently FOR SALE HERE
'INCONSISTENT' is a mixed media work. It is the regulation ACEO size 2.5" x 3.5" and is presented on ultra-smooth white card. This design is an original pen and ink drawing with artist fine-line pen and professional artists' pencils and plenty of TLC!
This piece has also been sprayed with a light fixative for protection and longevity.

What are ACEOs???? ACEO is the acronym for "Art Cards Editions and Originals". An ACEO is a small piece of art that can be defined by it's convenient 2.5 x 3.5 inch size. (Standard trading card size) ACEOs are VERY different from trading cards however, because they are CREATED and traded or sold by artists. All my ACEOs are absolute ORIGINAL pieces of art! (Some artists choose to sell prints of their work -'editions' ) ACEOs are created in any medium available in the art world. Artists are creating them in ALL kinds of styles and varieties. There are no rules limiting the artist, outside of the size dimensions. ACEOs can be framed, propped, used as bookmarks,grouped together in larger frames......use YOUR imagination! Trading Card notebooks, sleeves and holders can all be used to display them. BECOME A COLLECTOR YOUR SELF OR BEGIN A COLLECTION AS A SPECIAL GIFT FOR A FRIEND TODAY-THE VARIETIES ARE ENDLESS!

Calla Lily

2010-06-07T12:08:00.001-07:00

Digitally edited photo of a lily, made the background less obtrusive and added HDR effect. Now for sale at REDBUBBLE

Sedona Life Styles Magazine features Jan & Jim

2010-06-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

The recent cover story features the Bike & Bean couple. You may have met Jim, Jan & their dogs in your travels through the bike shop, or tattoo studio.

The article highlights their active life style of mountain biking, the bike shop, Jan's art at the bike shop & tattoo work.

This magazine will be available for a year pick it up & check it out!

A Ballet of Blossoms

2010-06-05T09:42:00.000-07:00

Peachy Petals - Lynda Lehmann c 2009

Watch the petals of irises sway, billow and gently gesture in the breeze. It's like watching a ballet: the dance of sweet spring air over translucent sheaths of brilliant color, orchestrated interplay of air, color, and light....

Irises may be my favorite flower, for their intricate, sculptural forms, whose graceful spatial relationships flourish in 3-D. I think they're much more interesting than tulips, for example, whose colors are just as beautiful but whose petals form a more symmetric and predictable, cup-like structure. As with the process when I paint, I enjoy variety and a few surprises!

The closer I move with my eye or my view through the camera, the more I see of the fantastic architecture of the flower kingdom.

What's your favorite flower?

This article is re-posted from "Peripheral Vision" at www.innersights.blogspot.com.

Yellow Iris I

2010-05-23T08:24:00.001-07:00

Continuing with my Iris series, this one is also available for sale on REDBUBBLE.

One Iris Plus Three

2010-05-22T20:45:00.000-07:00

While we're talking about the lovely Iris...here is another from today, in the style of Warhol obviously, but I think in way that is more calming, that could just be me though.
This was created using the same methods as the previous Iris I posted, and is also available for sale on Redbubble

Iris I

2010-05-22T09:27:00.001-07:00

Originally a photo of an iris with a busy background,,edited using picnik, removed background, turned it into a pencil sketch and then posterized it. Finally added borders and a frame.
Now available for sale on REDBUBBLE

Autumn

2010-05-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

Another of my original photographs that has been digitally altered..
the quote is by William Cullen Bryant who was an American, journalist, romantic poet, and long-time editor of the New York Evening Post.
Available in various sizes on Redbubble

New WWAO Showcase for May

2010-05-16T10:56:00.000-07:00

Worldwide Women Artists Online is pleased to announce it's international group exhibit for the month of May. Be sure to visit this month's WWAO Online Showcase titled simply, Art, hosted by member artist Brenda Thours. You'll find a wide variety of art by our talented artists.

Brenda is also featuring artists from the show on her blog ArtBrenda Thour's Art Blog. There you will be able find out more information about the participating artists.

Thank you Brenda! :o)

Nurture...

2010-05-14T11:31:00.001-07:00

'Nurture the Garden of Your Dreams and the Seeds will Flourish!'
Mixed media on 5" square block gallery wrapped canvas-currently available for sale in my store CLICK HERE!!

Rush of Water, Hiss of Foam

2010-03-23T14:38:00.000-07:00

Sorry to repeat myself, but I think I've made a great improvement here, over my last post. This is a cut and edited version of my latest amateur beach movie. I've put back the original soundtrack with wind and water sounds. I hope you enjoy it. When the music pauses, listen to the waves!

I loved making it, and hope to learn more about the video editing software. It's on my long list of goals....

Thanks for your visit and for sharing this with me!

Video c Lynda Lehmann but available on YouTube for embedding. Re-posted from "Peripheral Vision" blog.

Sibilant Songs of the Shoreline: Surf, Shells, Seagulls, Sand, and Sky

2010-03-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

Early Bird - Image c Lynda Lehmann 2010

Winging It - Image c Lynda Lehmann 2010

Feeding Time - Image c 2010 Lynda Lehmann

Alone Among Strangers - Image c 2010 Lynda Lehmann

Anticipation - Image c 2010 Lynda Lehmann

Blue Sky, Blue Water - Image c 2010 Lynda Lehmann

Nested in the Sand - Image c 2010 Lynda Lehmann

Gull Walk - Image c 2010 Lynda Lehmann

Beach Baubles - Image c 2010 Lynda Lehmann

Inevitable Beauty - Image c 2010 Lynda Lehmann

What's sibilant at the seashore? The hissing of the foaming surf, the shrill screeching of gulls, the satisfying intervals of silence and solitude.

Okay, you've got me. The words I've used to DESCRIBE those natural phenomena are instances of sibilance, whereas the phenomena themselves, are not.

Nevertheless, every time I go to the beach with my camera, nature reveals her little secrets to me, sights and sounds and smells (there I go again) that fill me with joy. It seems that by looking through my camera lens, I've made a pact with beauty. Each time I see more than the time before. No exotic foreign scenes, just everyday sights of the shoreline. Each time, I feel so rich and enriched: my cup of beauty is full again!

I see the entire animal kingdom in the clannish squawking chatter of the gulls, moving mostly in unison against the waves, in vigilant outlook for their next meal. I see the cosmos in a brightly colored scattering of shells, the treasures of ages in a golden, iridescent conch half buried in the sand.

It's an addiction. Framing an image in your viewfinder or LCD screen can do two things. It can actually insulate you from the walking/hiking experience because you loose yourself in the intention of getting satisfying photographs to document the experience you're only HALF having, lol....

Or, by the concentration of your focus on aspects and segments of the surrounding environment, you actually sense and see MORE of it! Most of the time it's a wash (no pun intended) and what I lose in the directness of the experience, I'm compensating for by the poignant visual moments--those shining little moments of thrilling epiphany--in which I entirely lose myself. Nature spins its magic around me and I'm in FLOW for as long as I go with it.

At one point I had hundreds of gulls taking wing around me--and for a moment I was immersed in a universe of fluttering wings whose "whooshing" sound filled the beach and drowned out the crashing of waves and the hiss of sea-foam. (As you can imagine, I was immensely grateful that none of them dropped on me...)

I watched in awe (through my lens) as one sedate gull was knocked over backwards by a wave. He had to use his wings to straighten himself and scramble back into his sitting position. If a gull can look surprised and flustered, I think he did! But maybe I'm anthropomorphizing too much....

I've been carrying my tripod lately. It becomes quite heavy to lug over long distances on sand or muddy trails. But it's worth the benefit of better photo quality--and I'm finally training myself to carrying it religiously. I've been shooting at narrow apertures, as small as F 11 and even F 16 on sunny days, to facilitate depth of field. Although JPG noise continues to be a problem, even when I use a noise filter in the processing.

Here are a few of the many images I shot the other day. My favorite shots are "Anticipation," "Nested in the Sand" and "Blue Sky, Blue Water." My greatest joy is finding beauty and tranquility in everyday scenes, including local beaches and parks. Most of us are fortunate enough to have a park, or a stretch of forest, or a garden, somewhere nearby. Do you have a favorite sanctuary where you habitually go to find natural beauty and peace?

NOTE: I would like to thank all those of you who voted for my photo in the Newsday photo contest. I believe the winner had literally thousands of votes, and was a shot of a child hugging a marine mammal. I haven't been able to find it again to verify this, but it was an adorable and heartwarming photo, well deserving of the votes.

All images and text c Lynda Lehmann. If you would like to view more of my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

Windows to the Soul, or Souls Past and Present

2010-02-21T19:09:00.000-08:00

The Morbid Details - Lynda Lehmann c 2010

Taken Over - Lynda Lehmann c 2010

Windows of an aging public institution, overgrown with vines, patched, boarded and abandoned, conjure many tales. I think windows and doors have always been iconic for the human species: they are among the archetypes or unconsciously-associated symbols that help us interpret human behavior and navigate the mystery of our existence in the cosmos.

It's no surprise then, that windows such as these have an almost horrific and shocking impact. At least, that's how I feel when I gaze at them. One has to wonder what went on there, in this abandoned complex of buildings at King's Park Psychiatric Hospital, on the grounds of what is now Nissequogue River State Park, and what spiritual forces may have been left behind. One doesn't have to believe wholeheartedly in ghosts to acknowledge that we haven't disproved their existence. Whose spirit might roam these grounds? Would you want to meet them? And perhaps most importantly, will we ever achieve a really humane society?

I posted some other shots taken at this site, last year. I love capturing these vintage/urban shots in spite of the fact that they usually don't evoke positive emotions. But they tell stories, and they have so much character. How well they mark the passage of time and the passage of the human stream, along with it! If you click on the photos you will see more of the details, like the shroud effect of the plastic sheeting on the top image, and the poignant gesture of the vines, in both shots.

At times, contemplating images that reflect a darker side of our collective reality, may make us appreciate the lighter side of the human condition. Things like love and beauty. Do you agree?

2010-02-21T09:12:00.000-08:00

This is the first in a series of paintings of trails I have explored on horseback.

Happy Trails No.1 Griffith Park, California

4x6 Watercolor on Montval 140# paper

My Latest Abstract Acrylic Painting: "Island Interlude"

2010-02-18T18:24:00.000-08:00

Island Interlude - c 2010 Lynda Lehmann

I dance with my brushes until something happens. What happens is that colors and shapes interact to please my eyes. Some friends and relatives keep telling me to paint realism, because "that's what sells." But I don't paint for money; I paint for the love of it. I feel great joy each time a new visual experience is born, and I would not give up my excitement for anything. It's our passions that make life worth living. Of course, I do love a good sale!

What are some of your passions, that you couldn't live without? Besides pasta and coffee and chocolate, this is....

NOTE: I call this painting "Island Interlude," simply because I have to give my pieces a title. You will find in it, whatever you find in it. To me, it has a Caribbean feel. It's 14 x 20 inches, done in acrylic on Arches watercolor paper. I'm beginning a series of paintings on watercolor paper because of the cost of canvases. The heavy Arches paper takes the paint quite well and because of my savings, I can afford to sell these paintings at a lower price.

Image and text copyright Lynda Lehmann. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

Envisioning a Web of Light

2010-02-13T18:09:00.000-08:00

Web of Light - Image c Lynda Lehmann

Today was gray--a raw, damp, winter day. The solid stripes of snow slathered on the north sides of all the trees we saw along the roads we drove, had not yet melted or been blown off the bark by the wind. The dirty but otherwise undisturbed snow-cover gave the landscape a formidable look, reduced to a blatant, cold contrast of black and white. It was a day bereft of color and warmth. Snow and ice-sheathed and chilly, without a trace of color to behold in sky or forest, without the generous wafting scents or caressing breezes of spring.

Old Man Winter really is a stingy curmudgeon! I had to close my eyes to find an image that was warm and inviting, and I remembered summer days spent dangling ankles in river water and staring into endless reams of light thrown upon the lake by the nurturing sun. I came home and had to upload this image, to remind us all that warmer, more gentle and affirming days are on their way....

Impressionistic images like this are among my favorites. I could spend hours or days filling my "cup of beauty" with the shimmering patterns of sunlight on water and the pebbles underneath.

Baby Snow Leopard

2010-02-07T07:24:00.000-08:00

Most people can tell that I love wildlife just by looking at my paintings. Animals are a beautiful and precious gift from God, and the world would be a bit boring without them.

This is my latest painting, Baby Snow Leopard. It is a 16x20" oil on stretched canvas. Sides painted as a continuation of the painting, so no frame needed. You can find it on my website and etsy shop shortly.

Reference photo by photographer Daniela Pintimalli, you can view her work here.

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visit my blog.

Have a glorious and Blessed day.

Work in Progress....

2010-02-03T09:22:00.000-08:00

Hmmm...been a bit quiet here lately, I better let you all know what I have been up to !
Most importantly I took last weekend off and went to stay with my gorgeous cousin whilst enjoying a bit of a shopping spree! That out of my system and truly relaxed and refreshed, I have returned to finish preparing for a really exciting event beginning this weekend at Seiner's Bar in Perranporth, Cornwall. The Spring Art Exhibition begins this Saturday and I have been invited to exhibit-yey! I have some new paintings ready for the show so will update this week here on my blog with some 'in progress' photos, followed by shots of the completed pieces and then hopefully some photos from Saturday's launch night-very exciting stuff! This photo is a snippet of the first layers of a mixed media painting entitled 'Steeped in Inspiration'....I am so pleased with this, can't wait to share the whole thing :) More tomorrow!

Vargas painting from blog tv 01/28/10

2010-01-29T02:42:00.001-08:00

The Beautiful, Beckoning Wood

2010-01-20T08:45:00.000-08:00

The Beautiful, Beckoning Wood - Lynda Lehmann c 2010

The arbor gleams. Trees gesture, dance and sway, playing with the showering gold of sunlight. Vines crawl and meander, yet always ascending. Textures pop and reflect the underlying vitality, setting the precedent for "Form." Wood wet with past rain glistens orange and lush vines play a rich green counterpoint. Shadows vignette the drama, and my heart leaps joyously into the cauldron where Creation plays out its evolving domain.

Note to My Readers: I want the above paragraph to stand alone, hence this note. My husband and I walked on the Long Island shoreline the other day, enjoying the sunshine and the January thaw. I was serendipitously graced with this image on the way out, at which point I was resolved to my day's photo-taking being over. It was getting late and the light was fading from the part of the shore we had been walking on. But we emerged into the sunlight and there it was: one of the most beautiful forest scenes I have witnessed: the bright side-lighting, the moisture on the trunks that brought out the rich colors of the bark, and the complements of orange and green. I hope this image brings to mind for you, some of your favorite moments of encounter with nature. I'd like to hear about them!

HELP HAITI NOW!

2010-01-14T11:57:00.000-08:00

The human condition leaves much to be desired. Now we have the Haiti earthquake, reminding us that none of us are immune to natural disasters. Death is the great equalizer.

To me, it’s important to hang on to my values in the face of disaster and in spite of personal trials and tribulations (which of course pale when compared to the more dire scenarios unfolding around the globe).

I think, for all of us, when there is tragedy in the world, it's important to do SOMETHING to help! If you can’t rush off to a foreign land to rescue people, help your ailing parent or neighbor. Or make a donation, however small it may have to be....

As the death toll in Haiti rises, and we are numbed by the scope of the tragedy, let's get our minds and hands in gear to make donations. If you think you are poor, envision being a small child sleeping in the chaos and rubble of the street without parents, food or water. Send money for a blanket or a few gallons of water!

CNN has an extensive list of organizations who can help. I just made my donation to the American Red Cross. You can do it by phone or online. I did mine online in about one minute's time. I only wish I had done it yesterday. People are suffering.

Let's send more than love and prayers. There's no time to waste; lives are waning.

Let's start the New Year with empathy and compassion. Here's a link where you will find many choices of organizations who will send aid.

http://edition.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2007/impact/

All text copyright Lynda Lehmann. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

TAWNY Mixed Media Fairy ACEO

2010-01-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN MY ETSY STORE! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE!
'TAWNY' is a mixed media work. It is the regulation ACEO size 2.5" x 3.5" and is presented on ultra-smooth bristol board white card. This design is an original pen and ink drawing with artist fine-line pen and professional artists' pencils and markers and plenty of TLC!

This piece has also been sprayed with a light fixative for protection and longevity.

What are ACEOs???? ACEO is the acronym for "Art Cards Editions and Originals". An ACEO is a small piece of art that can be defined by it's convenient 2.5 x 3.5 inch size. (Standard trading card size)
ACEOs are VERY different from trading cards however, because they are CREATED and traded or sold by artists. All my ACEOs are absolute ORIGINAL pieces of art! (Some artists choose to sell prints of their work -'editions' )

ACEOs are created in any medium available in the art world. Artists are creating them in ALL kinds of styles and varieties. There are no rules limiting the artist, outside of the size dimensions. ACEOs can be framed, propped, used as bookmarks,grouped together in larger frames......use YOUR imagination! Trading Card notebooks, sleeves and holders can all be used to display them.

watch me wreck a painting in under 7 min VW painting

2010-01-06T15:11:00.001-08:00

I just haven't painted in dogs years..argh i's also the biggest thing I've ever worked on 2 x 4 feet!
Just going to upload a video of it... be kind it's in progress

Music:
"Waiting to Come Back Down"
by jaspertine
http://ccmixter.org/files/jaspertine/...
2008 - Licensed under
Creative Commons
Attribution Noncommercial (3.0)

Rockin' Out

2010-01-06T14:26:00.000-08:00

Unexpected Yellow - Lynda Lehmann c 2010

Arizona Mineral Abstract - Lynda Lehmann c 2010

I love rocks. Rocks in any form. Little shards, rounded pebbles, mighty boulders, and vast canyons--they all resonate with me. It's as if I can feel their solidity, their might and permanence. They give me a feeling of being anchored to the great mysteries at our feet and in the more vaporous elements of the atmosphere around us. They make me feel strong. They are enduring and completely OF the earth!

In our everyday lives we may see rocks as inorganic, consisting of minerals steeped and birthed in the heat and power of the Earth. But if one believes in quantum physics and the concept that everything is energy, one must believe that rocks too, consist of and emit energy. (I am speaking of rocks in a metaphysical sense. As for the emissions of radioactive elements, now THAT is another subject altogether....)

Here are a few photos of boulders I took in Arizona's Tonto National Forest. Not only do the rocks resonate with me in some enigmatic energy way, but their surfaces are a feast of form and color. Abstracted realism is one of my favorite forms of photography, and these boulders make powerful abstracts in their own right. It's just amazing, how much beauty is embedded in flowers, plants, trees, animals, air, water, fire, and yes, rocks!

Again, my eyes rejoice in what my camera can take away from majestic natural scenes filled with mystery and surprise. Every day is a gift of vision and inspiration.

Layered Rock in Tonto Forest - Lynda Lehmann c 2010

Sanguine - Lynda Lehmann c 2010

And here is an example of the total package--a macroscopic view of multiple microcosms, a vast panoramic landscape supported by rock. A canyon is a universe unto itself.

Red Rocks Ridges - Lynda Lehmann c 2010

Note: This is my first post in the New Year. I want to wish everyone health, prosperity, and happiness in 2010 and beyond. And for all of humankind, peace on Earth. May beauty fill your cup and lead you to your fulfillment, whatever its form. And may we find a way to justice, for all people.

All photos and text copyright Lynda Lehmann. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

Treasure Box in green....

2009-12-26T13:27:00.001-08:00

Fiber art Treasure Box in gorgeous green, now available in my store for sale HERE! This one is a real beauty,please follow the link for more details .....

The Nature of Pine Bark: Beauty in Every Line and Pore

2009-12-03T09:41:00.001-08:00

The Beauty of Pine Bark - Lynda Lehmann c 2009

Looking for and finding natural beauty, is my life. It carries me through my days, cushioning me from life's disappointments and the tragedies of the human condition. I remember the day I walked around the shore of Echo Lake State Park in New Hampshire, snapping photos of tree bark. I approached this tall pine, among others, on a crowded beach, and stood just a couple of inches from the scabrous and meandering bark. The people sunning on the lake shore literally stared--no doubt they thought I had escaped from the "loony bin." What IS that woman doing, standing with her nose stuck against the trunk of that scraggly, old pine? (Smirk...)

I've always had to explain to people how and why I LOOK at things with great interest. I've been asked in recent years,"Why are you always looking up?" The answer, of course, is that I find great inspiration in the trees, sky, and clouds. And why shouldn't I? Chances are, those particular acquaintances might be more concerned with contemplating their navels.

I remember WAY back in my college days, when I carried an apple home from the dining hall at Penn State and a roommate made a quip about "pseudo-intellectualism." But I was in earnest when I commented on the form and exquisite color of the apple. Of course in those days of upheaval and rebellion, we questioned everything. Especially the "Establishment," the "military-industrial complex" and the other stale institutions of the status-quo. Now, in my ripe old age, I realize that more than anything, we have to question ourselves, as the basis for any positive change. Transformation begins with our own perception and intellect. We have to take responsibility for who we are, for our own attitudes, actions and reactions, before we can change the world.

I'm lucky that simple beauties change the world for me! If this means I'm a "simple" person, I'll take it. I think I'm blessed to find the beauty and mystery in small details some other folks might be "too busy" to discover.

NOTE: I did tweak the above photo a bit, to bring out the hues that were already there, in the pine bark.

Pear and Cherries - Oil Painting

2009-11-27T04:16:00.000-08:00

Pear and Cherries is another of the small color studies I've been working on. It measures 8 inches tall by 10 inches wide, and it's on gallery wrap canvas.

Don't miss my website for my oil paintings! You can find me on Twitter and Facebook, too!

Be sure to click here to sign up for my semi-monthly newsletter!

Sole Mates

2009-11-22T13:29:00.000-08:00

She's a high class gal, he's just a working guy, but when you are *Sole Mates* stuff like that doesn't matter. (ok so it's a little corny but I couldn't resist..lol) Wouldn't this make a great card though? If you agree, click >>HERE<< which will bring you to my Redbubble site where you can purchase a card with this photo on it, or even a 16x12 framed print.

Fabric Art Album Handmade Book

2009-11-21T15:46:00.000-08:00

Entitled 'Happiness', this gorgeous new fabric album is crammed with tags and embellishments and measures around 6" square.
Perfect for mementoes and keepsakes this would make a lovely gift or an inspirational journal for a creative mind!Currently available for sale HERE if you would like to view more details and further photos of this tactile piece of art.

TRANQUILITY mixed media original canvas painting

2009-11-18T05:08:00.000-08:00

This mixed media canvas painting is entitled 'TRANQUILITY' and measures 10" x 10" x 1+ 1/2" .Currently for sale in my etsy store PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VISIT,
the work is lightly glazed with a soft gloss artist's varnish to seal and protect.
Sides are fully painted in rich matt black as part of the work so a frame is not necessary.
A lovely calm piece which would look adorable with any decor,vintage or contemporary.
A very attractive addition to your own or a loved one's art collection.
Please do check out my other listings for further works!
~ Commissions are also welcome! ~

New Art Book-For Children and Adults!

2009-11-15T06:56:00.000-08:00

Time Pieces - It's About Time!

The book features 12 of the 14 pieces in the ongoing series!

You can view a few of the pages below!

This would make a great Christmas gift!

I am offering signed copies on eBay!

Unsigned
copies are available for sale on
Lulu.com!

You can also

Check out my
Squidoo lense for more info and details!

Visit my official website for more about me, more of my work, originals gifts and more! artbymichellecollins.com!

Harmony ACEO

2009-11-14T06:35:00.000-08:00

This is one of my latest ACEO designs currently available for sale in my store HERE. This is a miniature Art Doll and is entitled 'Harmony'. Please visit my store for further details!

The Sacred Energy of Wild Places

2009-11-13T09:59:00.000-08:00

There is an energy at the core of Life, a sacred energy felt most apparently and keenly in those places we may refer to as "wild." For some of us, that place may truly be in a remote wilderness area. More likely it will be a place that is just a bit out of the way. But it seems to me that the place, whether near or far from the beaten track, will be a place that is as yet unexploited and unspoiled by the touch of man.

My husband and I discovered such a place about two weeks ago. One of our mini-excursions into the Maine countryside brought us unexpectedly to a wooded marshland. It was just a tad off of a main road that was not quite a highway, but a two-lane road well-traveled by local traffic.

We made a right turn on a street whose name I can't remember. What I do remember is that it was indeed, a "proper" town street-sign in white and green with a name bestowed on this road. But it was not in any sense your typical suburban or even country road.

I was stricken with my first view of the marsh. Forest encroached on all sides, rising above the area on gentle hills. The trees still retained some of their autumn splendor but were at least partly given over to the stark winter nakedness that makes their skeletons so much more gestural and poignant than their leafy summer counterparts.

I got out of the car and scanned the near distance. Woods, woods, and more woods, with a wetland in the middle that coalesced into a quiet stream that wound its way through the thicket.

At the side of the road, cattails abounded, rich in their brown fur and contrasting the more sparse occurrence of milkweed pod. Some of the pods were open to the skyward flurry of their gossamer white fuzz, while others remained closed and pregnant with the seed loads of future plants.

A huge beaver lodge graced the middle of the watery pool on the right side of the road, commanding the eye's attention, as would a mansion on the vast grounds of a manicured estate.

But this was no manicured estate. Although fairly close to the town of Norway in southwest Maine, it had all the trappings of a true wilderness. Bird calls of all ilks met my ears, like beacons of a distant time in the annals of Creation. The milkweed seeds, picked up by an intermittent breeze, sailed into the blue dome that reflected on the water below. Everywhere there was life. Thorns, red winter berries, the milkweed, swaths of emerald moss and the texture of the slightly churned water. Sweet pungent air, sparkling with sunlight. The auburn of spent foliage rimming the swamp.

I could almost hear our dear Mother Earth inviting me in her mysterious tongues to partake. She wanted me to embrace her, smell her, feel her caress, hear her song. She wanted to delight me. She wanted to pay homage to herself for her dignity, sustained in the face of ages of exploitation and consumption, by her own stubborn Being.

Years ago, I wrote a young adult novel (one of four, actually) about a teenage girl who has to leave the lowland plain between Brazil and Peru, to climb deep into the Andes. She had to undertake this journey because her tribe was dying out, and their only chance was for her to try to retrieve the ancient medical secrets of the Incas, from whom she had descended. The Boutiquin, the ancient medicine chest of the forest floor was dying out and only she, Liana, with the tenacity of the vine for which she was named, could make her way into the highland to fetch the ancient wisdom.

Along the way, repeatedly, she bent her head to the Earth and heard the Hum of Being.

In my writing, the "Hum of Being" was a contrivance to enhance the plot, an embellishment in my manuscript to bring home the feminist and earth stewardship themes of my book.

But last week, in that patch of wild made of forest and river and swamp, filled with sunshine and seeds and berries and birdsong, I heard the Hum of Being for myself. Have you ever heard it? What is your experience with finding yourself surrounded by the magic of a sacred place? For me, it is the among the very best and most inspiring of life experiences.

Inklings of the Sublime

2009-11-07T15:39:00.001-08:00

Magical World - c Lynda Lehmann 2009

Shimmer - c Lynda Lehmann 2009

Waterscape IV - c Lynda Lehmann 2009

Web of Light - c Lynda Lehmann 2009

I had such a wonderful nature experience this past summer, that I feel it has not only enriched me, but actually transformed me. I'm not a calm person. But the more I opened myself to the patterns and textures all around me, the calmer I felt. It was as if the serenity of the ENDURING THINGS just oozed into my pores, all the way to my soul. I felt warmed and comforted. The more I looked, the more I saw. And the calmer I felt.

I filled up on the great "Cup of Beauty" that is our world, and have made using my senses into a sort of mantra. On college campuses, back in the sixties, the motto was "Tune out and turn on." I never felt that was the way to go, and I'm more sure of it than ever. My mantra is "Pause to receive, rejoice, and BE." I believe that the ubiquitous beauties of the world can lead us to transcendence, if we open our hearts. All we have to do is pause and focus. Very simple.

The sunlight or clouds playing on the lake surface and the infinite forms, colors, and patterns of lichen, are just a couple of examples of the natural beauty that astounded me. I feel spiritually rich.

I'd love to hear about some of the details of nature that fascinate you!

All images and text copyright Lynda Lehmann. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

Consciousness

2009-11-02T14:11:00.000-08:00

Consciousness - c Lynda Lehmann 2009

I'm in the process of preparing a longer post, but thought I'd share one of my new digital paintings with you in the meantime. I will be able to post more in the coming weeks, I hope, and I can't wait to visit with you!

Just wondering: does this image evoke any particular thought, mood, or concept for you? I DO see what the title implies, but then, that's just me and you will have your own reaction.

Personally, I LOVE the freedom of digital art, and the "clean" process that doesn't involve paints and finishes, because I don't always have time for traditional brush and pigment painting. Both digital and real-time painting have their benefits, and one of the perks of digital is that you don't have to involve your whole studio or house in the process (the "aroma" of fresh paint DOES make it all the way to my kitchen, at times....)

Art and text copyright Lynda Lehmann. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

New Fall work

2009-10-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

Reflections 2

Fall Walk

Both are available for sale in a variety of sizes through my Redbubble Gallery

Spiraling into the Blues

2009-10-18T18:33:00.000-07:00

A digital piece that began life as a blurry photo of a full moon and rapidly turned into this, my representation of how it sometimes feels like life is spiraling out of control and trying to suck you down into depression, despite your struggles to fight off the blues.
This is available for sale on redbubble

Picking a Pumpkin

2009-10-17T08:43:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun little 5x7 oil painting I did for the fall. I just had to put a cute little critter in there, I love wildlife! This painting will be posted for sale on both my etsy shop and website soon.

This is a pic of me and my dog Dusty. He wasn't too cooperative on posing with me, but this one came out ok. He's a sweetie, and when he wants to eat he starts to talk. It sounds like he's saying 'I love you' with alot of grunts in there.

Hope you are having a wonderful weekend!

Tonight is my 25 class reunion, I can hardly believe it. Do you think people will have aged a bit since then? It's funny how we always imagine people the way they were when we last saw them.

hugs,

Brenda

Country Dreams

2009-10-16T14:41:00.000-07:00

Grazing - Image c Lynda Lehmann 2009

Country Dreams - Image c Lynda Lehmann 2009

I was enchanted by these idyllic scenes of a pasture in autumn, with grazing cows and horses. It was such a peaceful and dreamlike scene, with the muted colors of a somewhat hazy fall day. Here are a couple of my favorite shots, among many taken during a couple of short outings in the past month.

The animals look so contented that it's easy to forget they are being raised for commerce. I know the demands of the food chain are an indisputable reality, but I feel an empathy with animals who overall, perhaps, have less control over their fates than we humans do. Or do you think that's a subject for debate?

Regardless, the natural beauty of rural areas does not disguise the fact that life is a struggle. That's why I think it's important to have empathy for every living being. We can't deny the realities of the food chain, but we can strive for harmony and intelligent living. We can also count our blessings....

Speaking of contented animals, here is a chipmunk who made multiple appearances on a tree stump in our yard. He seemed to be as happy to watch me as I was to watch him. Every time I snapped a shot and the flash fired, he disappeared under a weed-covered rock, only to appear again for another pose, a few seconds later!

Chippie Takes a Pose - Image c Lynda Lehmann 2009

You can click on the photos to see a larger version, or visit my sites, listed in the right sidebar, to see more images.

Latest Painting...

2009-10-13T11:36:00.001-07:00

Part of a commissioned series this is one of my latest pieces, created on 10" x 10" block gallery wrapped canvas in mixed media.

The Real Magic

2009-10-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

The Real Magic - c Lynda Lehmann 2009

Autumn is a magical time of year. In the state of Maine as in many other places, nature is going through its Rites of Passage by changing its behaviors, forms and patterns in advance of the coming winter. The paradox is that as it passes into dormancy, rest, or even hibernation, concentrating its resources in order to burst with new life in the spring, it seems to be at its most beautiful. In the time of transition the phenomenal sights are fleeting, but linger long enough to inspire us with anticipation of more life experience and joy, in the future.

Please click on the image to see a larger version. All text and image c Lynda Lehmann 2009. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

What's in a Name?...The Local Color of Maine

2009-10-04T12:41:00.000-07:00

The River Runs

Rustic Mystique

The General Store

At the Edge of the Wood

Late Bloomers

Old Workhorse

Kale With Pine Needle

Farm in Autumn

General Store

We drove the back roads yesterday, for an hour, at least. It was a beautiful, vibrant fall morning, which has given itself up today to a dark cloud cover and heavy rain.

Still faced with much work on our house and knowing the weather is changing, we needed the outing. With the aid of our new GPS, whom we have named "Jessie" for the Jessie's Mill Road she led us to, we felt free to wander without the burden of trying to read maps whose print is just too darned small for our old eyes to read!

We stumbled first on the tiny town of Bolster's Mills. I enjoyed the peace and quiet and the feeling of nostalgia it evokes. Were it not for our perception of the passing of time and the preciousness of fleeting Life, we could not experience nostalgia. But that's another story...

More than anything, I LOVED the general store, all set up with those rockers inviting one to sit awhile. Their presence only reinforced my perception of the fleetingness of our lives and our trappings on this Earth.

In the state of Maine, the appellations they come up with are as colorful as the autumn foliage or the sights along the road. From Puckerbrush to Cat-Moussem Road, to Menotomy Road and Hank's Hog Hill, one can only speculate as to what the inspiration was, for the names of these local byways. The local color here is fascinating.

I've got lots of new photos and I can't wait to do it again. There are whole worlds out there, nestled in every hollow and at every turn of the (paved or unpaved) road...

NOTE TO MY READERS: I usually make every effort to respond to comments and to make the rounds on a regular basis. This past summer, however, I had little item for blogging or my other passions, and have literally done NO painting! I just want you to know that I think of you and hope to be responding to comments more frequently, now that our huge project is a lot further along than it was in May when we again donned our hardhats for work on our house.

All video and text copyright Lynda Lehmann. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

Work in Progress....

2009-10-03T12:02:00.001-07:00

This is my latest commissioned piece, just a few of my 'in progress' shots to share with you today!
This is a large piece and to be created as part of a series of three to be hung together, so quite challenging, but I am so very pleased with the results so far!
Final images wil be posted here tomorrow, so hopefully I have piqued your curiosity enough that you will want to return and see the fruits of my labours in full glory!

Reflecting on the Power of Reflection

2009-09-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

We cannot hold time or the seasons, although often enough we would like to put a slice of time in our pockets. Isn't is grand that we are gifted with the power of memory? Without memory we could neither savor the beauty and joy of our experiences, nor learn from them.

Carrying my camera allows me to "capture the rapture," so to speak, by shooting the inspiring sights I see around me every day. So today I will reflect on the beauty of the past summer season, even as time tries to erase its impact on me.

In this photo you see the very fleeting beauty of reflections on the side of a wood boat on a mid-summer's day. The reams of light jiggle and dance like the wind or a fickle tide, reminding the viewer of just how delicate and evasive moments of beauty can sometimes be.

One ephemeral sight I have yet to capture is the sunlight bouncing off the water and shimmering on the trunks and undersides of the pine branches at the lake's edge. I hope to do so in the near future.

Life is precious! Every moment carries the potential for inspiration and yes, even bliss.

Photo and text copyright Lynda Lehmann. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

Wrist Corsage

2009-09-25T15:01:00.000-07:00

I am delighted to be offering for sale this totally funky fiber art handmade flower wrist corsage.
These are available in a host of stunning colours ( do contact me if you cannot see the shades you are looking for, I am happy to oblige!)
These lightweight flowers are attached to a soft cotton jersey band-roughly 7 and 1/2" to 8" in size to fit over most hands.
I have had so many compliments wearing one of these -and my daughter (18) has also been eagerly snapping them up, for herself and friends,so they really do appeal to all types and ages!
This design has three gorgeous mini flowers, each flower is (approx)3cm (1"+) diameter.

Check out my art store sujati.etsy.com to view my excellent feedback details and shop with confidence!
Truly a one-off this is a lovely gift for someone special or maybe a well-deserved treat for yourself!
Currently available for sale in my store CLICK HERE to view more details and photos

Reflections on Summer's Passing

2009-09-21T12:58:00.000-07:00

A Still and Solitary Time

Water Tapestry

Beneath the Surface

Sunset With Wake

Peace

autumn lays a cold hand on the lake
as its shores slip into evening shadows.
twilight's reminiscences bring joy and sorrow to bear.

under a painted sky i envision the freezing of the lake and the winter gale.

loneliness is in the air, in that settling autumn hush,
as seeking shelter becomes the point of it all.

another season of my life has passed
but in the sureness of beauty, I am comforted.

in the peace over the chilling land, i am replete.

- Lynda Lehmann c 2009

All photos and text copyright Lynda Lehmann. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

New Oil Painting, Floral

2009-09-21T12:55:00.001-07:00

This is "Calla Lilies," a new oil painting. It's 12 inches by 12 inches, a different format for me. I like this square format. This canvas is on 1 1/2 inch deep gallery wrap, meaning the canvas and design continues around the sides of the piece, so it can be framed or not.

I painted this piece from photos from my sister's calla garden. These are such beautiful flowers and I've painted them often. Calla needs more drying time before I list it for sale, so if you'd like it before then just let me know and I'll put your name on it. This week I want to paint some smaller callas. I have some very small canvases and think it will be fun. Fun work that is!

You can purchase my oil paintings and studies on my website . Be sure to click here to sign up for my monthly newsletter!

Check out my blog and see new artwork, as well as the wonderful flora and fauna of the beautiful Texas Hill Country!

You can find me on Twitter and Facebook, too!

Jean

Jean Levert Hood

Rose Quartz

2009-09-20T17:34:00.000-07:00

A shot of a piece of rose quartz on a mirror surrounded by black velvet. This is available for sale in several styles, along with more of my photography in my Redbubble gallery

All in the Same Place

2009-09-14T18:17:00.001-07:00

Touch of Autumn - Image c Lynda Lehmann

Reach - Image c Lynda Lehmann

Idyllic - Image c Lynda Lehmann

Here are three views of trees leaning over a lake in southern Maine, taken a week before the onset of autumn. They protrude from the fertile bank within mere feet of each other, practically at the same point. Each tree is different, in species, form, and the texture and color of its bark and foliage. Yet each is the same: leaning for sun and sustenance over the shallows in the fading afternoon light.

Lush with life, resplendent in diversity, our planet sings the songs of its seasons.

What are some of your favorite sights, in autumn?

MEMORIES Mixed Media Canvas Painting

2009-09-14T03:55:00.001-07:00

Mixed media painting on block gallery wrapped canvas, 10" x 10". Sides are fully painted as a part of the work so framing not necessary. Currently available for sale HERE

New Flower Accessories for Autumn!

2009-09-10T01:55:00.000-07:00

Just some of the new flower pins I have been working on this week-gorgeous autumn range of colours! Check out my fiber art store on etsy > vividspirit.etsy.com to see more new designs and lots more on the way so check in often!

Oil Painting, Sedona View

2009-09-09T07:34:00.000-07:00

Sedona View is an original oil painting, 12 inches wide by 16 inches tall. It is available for $495.00. This beautiful area is breathtaking!

You can purchase my oil paintings and studies on my website .

Check out my blog and see new artwork, as well as the wonderful flora and fauna of the beautiful Texas Hill Country!

Till next time!
Jean

Jean Levert Hood

Moon Lakes and Night Voices

2009-09-08T13:53:00.000-07:00

Moon Lake - c Lynda Lehmann

i cannot sleep.

a pale shroud has overtaken the darkened world
and shadows quiver in rhythm of moonlight.

released by luster of illumination,
voices rise from deep recesses of mind and forest

where dreams and animals meet
to share mystery.

their discourse rises on sleek silver strands, to the night wind.

life force has the wisdom to know its own sustenance,
the Life Force whose glow burns brighter in its knowing.

voices merge--chirps and squawks, calls and whispers--
melding past and future, history and infinity
to tell of their knowing.

and i know that their knowing is so much greater than mine.

i cannot sleep.

i drink as well, from the vast cup of silence,
the silky intervals of chastened night
that channels the voices...

those murmurs of God and Infinity that
all at once
calm and discomfort my soul.

i cannot sleep.

i must not sleep.

--Lynda Lehmann c 2009

All art and text copyright Lynda Lehmann. All rights reserved.

If you would like to view my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

Proposal

2009-09-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

One of my original photos for a group on redbubble called "little things to make you smile" which features small items staged to show them doing unexpected things. This is one of several and can be bought in several different sizes on RedBubble including a card. Wouldn't this be a unique way to propose to your sweetie?

Fleur De Lis paintings

2009-09-05T17:24:00.000-07:00

I've been painting Fleur De Lis in watercolors and acrylics. These two are both acrylic on canvas.

Purple and Gold is 5 inches tall by 7 inches wide and is available for $50.00.

Gold Fleur De Lis is 5 inches by 5 inches squared. This is painted on a deep gallery wrapped canvas (1 1/2 inches) that needs no frame. It is available for $55.00.
These pieces will be joining other art that I have at The Royal Standard in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I am at the 2877 Perkins Road location. (Perks Coffee is at 2008 Perkins - one of my favorite BR coffee stops!) I'm so pleased to be at The Royal Standard and will be adding more pieces there. If you're interested in either of these pieces, please contact me. I will be sending them to The Royal Standard in a few weeks.

You can purchase my oil paintings and studies on my website. Visit my blog and see the flora and fauna of the Texas Hill Country area and my paintings. Be sure to click here to sign up for my (usually) monthly newsletter!

Jean
Jean Levert Hood - Texas Hill Country Painter

Nectar

2009-09-01T12:12:00.001-07:00

Well, it has been a while again, despite my best intentions! Lots of new paintings and news to share the next few weeks, beginning with this darling little mixed media painting 'Nectar'. Created using collage,oils,inks and acrylic paints on 4" x 6" deep block canvas this piece is currently available for sale HERE .
Commissions are welcome also!

The Elegance Of Lichen, Revisited

2009-08-30T07:17:00.000-07:00

Branching with the grace of trees; sparkling with the light of stars; spreading with the hope of life; imbued with the energy of Creation; pastel-colored like fairies and rainbows. What am I talking about? LICHEN, of course!

Welcome to my "Garden of Earthy Delights!" Here are some recent macro shots of majestic trees whose bark presents a cornucopia of smaller lifeforms. They represent a microcosm of organic form that rivals the beauty of any flower garden. Form, color, infinite configurations: the peaceful symbiosis of bark, moss, insects, and lichen defy the hungry eye to ignore them. At first glance you might feel these shots are redundant, but if you look closely, you'll see a great variety of abstract compositions!

I LOVE photographing lichen. I think that some of my Abstract Expressionist paintings reflect my fascination with the kind of bursting forth of life force reflected in the orderly disorder of lichen!

If these images awaken your sense of wonder and you'd like to view more of them, please visit my "Living Surface" Gallery at Imagekind.

NOTE: Please click on any image to see the enlarged version.

Original oil painting, Still life, Blue Vase

2009-08-28T09:43:00.000-07:00

Blue Vase is available on my website. 14 x 18 inches, $595.00

You can purchase my oil paintings and studies on my website . Visit my blog to see life in and around the beautiful Texas Hill Country. I love our flora and fauna and love to share it with you!

Be sure to click here to sign up for my monthly newsletter!

Jean

Jean Levert Hood - Texas Hill Country Painter

Digital Dandelion Haiku

2009-08-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

The 4th in my series, this features my original Haiku and digital art.
This is now available in 2 sizes of posters and on several other products at my Zazzle store and will soon be available as prints in my Etsy shop.

Abstract, With the Wind

2009-08-15T07:28:00.001-07:00

With the Wind, abstract in oil:

detail:

This oil abstract reminds me of the wind. I love the swirl of colors in this piece.

Detail:

You can purchase With the Wind my website . My blog has wonderful photos of nature in my area.

Be sure to click here to sign up for my monthly newsletter!

Tranquil

2009-08-07T13:34:00.000-07:00

This mixed media canvas painting is entitled 'Tranquil' , measures 5" x 5" x 1+ 1/2" .
The work is lightly glazed with a soft gloss artist's varnish to seal and protect.

Sides are fully painted in a toning rich,creamy lime as part of the work so a frame is not necessary.
A lovely calm little piece which would look adorable with any decor,vintage or contemporary.

A very attractive addition to your own or a loved one's art collection.
Currently available for sale HERE
Please do check out my other listings for further works!
~ Commissions are also welcome! ~

Where My Heart Loves to Wander

2009-07-23T06:35:00.001-07:00

Little Secrets of the Forest

The Forest Primeval

Lichen Puzzle

Rugged Terrain

Expectant, I break with the path to enter the forest gate. I know I have a pact with the forest, under whose canopy, worlds open. Engrossed by sweet, green-tinted shade spangled with glimmers of sunlight, my senses tingle. Wide-eyed I stand, compelled by the richness of possibility: here in the world of shadows and translucence, anything is possible.

I move on. The woods close around me and beckon me further. The sound of my tread is its own music as my feet pad over gnarled roots, soft beds of moss, and the tough flanks of boulders.

I feel the stretch of my calves and hear also, the rhythm of my breathing; only the murmur of the trees is more compelling. I bathe in green splendor, glad for a moment of reverie.

Here in the forest I own myself, I am fully and freely me. The covenant is with the Life Force. And I drink at its fount.

Life looms larger. More real than real, this arbor now--heaving in sync with the wind that enters its vaulted, verdant halls.

Dark hollows quiver with guarded truths, the quiet symbiosis of their parts to the whole. Wholly holy, in tune with itself, integrated and diverse, at rest in activity, steadfast but quick in growth and new life, the forest sings to me in a crescendo of beauty.

And I applaud with my soul.

Lichen Painting

All images and text c Lynda Lehmann. If you would like to view more of my art or make a purchase, please visit Lynda Lehmann Painting and Photography or my gallery at Imagekind, where you can choose from several sizes and paper types or buy my prints plain or matted and framed.

I'm Up Here

2009-07-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

Here it is, finished! My husband came up with the title, I'm Up Here, and we decided to take out the post on the left side. Planning on posting it on etsy tomorrow.
I posted the cougar painting (entitled Watching) from the last post on etsy today. I still need to get these newest paintings on my website. There is always so much to do!

Pomegranates Oil Painting

2009-07-18T17:47:00.000-07:00

Pomegranates is my new oil painting.

It measures 14 inches tall by 11 inches wide and is available on my web site for $395.00. (Remember that the prices on my website include shipping and insurance.) I love painting fruit, but by now I'm sure you've figured out that whatever I'm painting at the moment is my favorite! Yes, I simply can't help it.

You can purchase my oil paintings and studies on my website . Visit my blog to see life in and around the beautiful Texas Hill Country. I love our flora and fauna and love to share it with you!

You can find me on Twitter and Facebook, too! Be sure to click here to sign up for my monthly newsletter!

Jean

Cougar Painting

2009-07-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

I sketched this newest painting out last night out on the deck, it was such a beautiful evening. This morning, before I even went online I started painting. I actually remembered to take a pic of it before I finished.

It is pretty well finished. I will probably add a few touches here and there. The reference photo was taken by my brother-in-law, Curt Reimer on a recent trip to Como Park Zoo. Take a bow Curt! It sure is true, that the better the reference photo, the better the painting.
For those of you who are old enough, remember the zoos back in the 1960's and early 70's? What a difference. I remember when the big animals were kept in small barred cages lined up in a row. I love how they make their habitats more natural for the animals now.

I also sketched out this giraffe I am planning on painting next. They are both 8x10's. This one on canvas board, the Cougar is on stretched canvas.
Visit my etsy shop for my paintings, magnets, pendants and aceos.
Until next time,
stay safe!

Special Offer This Weekend Only!!

2009-07-10T14:53:00.000-07:00

Please take a moment to visit my etsy accessories store HERE and if you see something that you like simply enter the code 'JULY 2009 OFFER' to receive a 20% refund against your invoice-grab a bargain now! Happy July everyone! :)xx

Rose, Original Watercolour by Madelaine Fedorowich

2009-07-06T10:02:00.001-07:00

Finished and now back to the birds. I have a couple of birds on the go and have my eyes on another floral painting in the future. Enjoy! This painting can be purchased through my etsy store and more paintings can be seen on my blog.

Rose
4" x 6" Watercolour
© 2009

Hibiscus

2009-07-02T18:09:00.000-07:00

This morning it was so beautiful outside that I decided to paint my hibiscus plant that is sitting on my deck. I sadly have to admit that this is the first time I've painted outside without using a photo for reference. Which means this is my first plein air painting, and I loved it! The paint is still wet, that's why there's a glare. It is a 4x4 inch oil on stretched canvas.
Once the paint is dry I will post it for sale at my etsy store, where you can find other paintings, aceo's, pendants and magnets.

I will also be listing it on my website.
You can find me on facebook, and myspace
I'd be delighted if you'd follow me on twitter.
Also, come and check out my Zazzle Store and Cafepress Shop.

New accessories store on etsy!

2009-06-28T14:33:00.000-07:00

Lots of new fabric flower ring designs currently available now in my new etsy store vividspirit.etsy.com
Lots of new colours for summer coming soon!

Nonsense! She Thought - Art Doll canvas

2009-06-22T05:27:00.001-07:00

Created in a whimsical style,on 5" x 7% canvas,this piece is entitled 'Nonsense! She Thought' and includes collaged script,inks,paints, fibers and one of my own beautiful handmade clay face cabs.
Sides are fully painted as a part of the work so there is no need for a frame-hang it as soon as it arrives!
The work is glazed with a soft matt varnish to enhance,seal and protect.

A very characterful and textured piece,this would make an interesting addition to any art collection and is currently available for sale PLEASE CLICK HERE for more details

Captured Moment, Original Watercolour by Madelaine Fedorowich

2009-06-21T10:24:00.001-07:00

I've started a new series of 100 Birds in One Year challenge and this is bird number four. To view the other birds or to purchase visit my blog or my etsy store.

Captured Moment
4" x 6" Watercolour
Photo Reference kindly provided by Alan and Elaine Wilson
© 2009

Teasel # 4 New Painting For Sale!

2009-06-13T00:39:00.001-07:00

This piece is entitled 'Teasel #4 ' and measures 12" x 6" x 1+ 1/2"
The work is lightly glazed with a soft gloss artist's varnish to seal and protect.
Sides are fully painted soft black as part of the work so a frame is not necessary.
This is a wonderfully calm piece and would compliment any decor beautifully.
A truly special addition to your own or a loved one's art collection.
Please do check out my other listings for further works in this popular series ~ Commissions are also welcome!
Signed and dated on the reverse.

This piece is currently available for sale -PLEASE CLICK HERE for more views and further details!

Purple Heron Painting

2009-06-12T06:22:00.000-07:00

detail:

Purple Heron is available here in my Etsy Store!

My website

My blog

Jean

Jean Levert Hood

Fauve Fantasy Floral

2009-06-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

Fauve Fantasy Floral

Aa original acrylic painting from my Fauve Floral Series Series.
Size 20" x 16"

For Sale on etsy